Seeing Bands in New York

Arlene Grocery and Butcher Bar 95 Stanton St. between Ludlow and Orchard Sts. (358-1633). Every night this venue hosts at least three bands back-to-back. Mostly local indie acts, but big names like Sheryl Crow have also played in this intimate space. Show starts at 7. Stop by next door at the Butcher Bar--a leg of the "grocery"--where drafts cost $5. Cover on the weekend $5.The Bitter End 147 Bleecker St. between Thompson and LaGuardia Sts. (673-7030). Small space hosts folk, country, and roots rock acts; they claim artists like Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, Woody Allen, and Rita Rudner performed here as unknowns. Look for their likenesses in the gaudy mural. Call for show times. Cover $5-12. Open Su-Th 7:30pm-2am, F-Sa 7:30pm-4am.

Another event you shouldn't miss while in the USA is the Rothbury Music Festival. Check out the link for more details.